2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in Amazon Time (AMT)

In Brazil, the opening of the FIFA World Cup is almost the only moment in sports that is celebrated with that much fervor. The residents of the Amazon region in Brazil associate the World Cup mostly with the starting times of the matches. And what a pleasantly comfortable scenario the 2026 FIFA World Cup is offering in that regard! Since the USA, Canada, and Mexico will be hosting the matches, a majority of the games will be well in line with Amazon Time (AMT), thus enabling football fans to watch live games without having to lose sleep.

Fans from the northern and western parts of Brazil will be provided with a schedule almost entirely made up of afternoon, evening, and late-night kick-offs. This is also the case for the knockout rounds, where each day features a different match, allowing fans to follow the tournament comfortably. The best time of day for a match in these regions is mainly the second half of the day, with evening and night kick-offs.

Here is the 2026 FIFA World Cup full timetable in Amazon Time (AMT) for all 104 matches, starting from the opening match on 11 June and running through to the final on 19 July 2026. The schedule is ideal whether you are watching from home, visiting the neighborhood, or simply sharing the game with friends.

Amazon Time (AMT) is always 4 hours behind UTC and remains unchanged throughout the year. Since Brazil no longer follows daylight saving time, the match kick-off times will remain the same for the entire duration of the tournament.

🌍 FIFA World Cup History at a Glance

The FIFA World Cup tournament has grown from a small gathering of only 13 teams into a worldwide festival of football, emotion, and national pride. The first World Cup was held in 1930, and since then it has become the world’s most-watched sporting event. The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams competing, marking a new era of global representation and inclusiveness.

Brazil is a country that has had a significant impact on World Cup history. Widely known for its attacking football, creativity, and joyful style of play, Brasil has defined several eras of the tournament. The SeleΓ§Γ£o is an icon of footballing brilliance and remains the benchmark against which the greatness of every generation is measured.

Brazil is the nation with the most FIFA World Cup titles, having won the tournament five times in total. Their triumphs in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002 were not only about lifting the trophy; each campaign introduced new styles of play that went on to influence football worldwide.

Below is a look at the most recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Host Nations United States, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used on this Page Amazon Time (AMT, UTCβˆ’4)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Brazil at the FIFA World Cup

Brazil has won the FIFA World Cup more than any other country and has become a symbol of the competition itself. Their five world titles are not only trophies, but also benchmarks that no other nation has been able to reach. Through their quality, style, and winning spirit, Brazil has remained a source of inspiration for generations of football fans.

The SeleΓ§Γ£o is a team with the unique ability to transform itself to suit the contemporary style of play, while still preserving its distinct footballing identity. From the captivating football of 1958 and the magical 1970 side, to the efficient triumph of 1994 and the dazzling 2002 line-up, Brazil has demonstrated the art of reinvention like no other nation.

There are very few tournaments in which Brazil fail to reach the latter stages, even when they do not finish with medals. Such a level of consistency is a true rarity in World Cup history. As a result, Brazil, once again among the tournament favorites, will be taking part in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Champions 5 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002
Runners-up 2 1950, 1998
Third Place 2 1938, 1978
Quarter-finals or better 13+ Multiple editions

Brazil’s Matches in Amazon Time (AMT)

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Saturday)
6:00 PM (AMT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
(Friday)
9:00 PM (AMT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
(Wednesday)
6:00 PM (AMT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C

Brazil will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a match against Morocco on Saturday, 13 June 2026, kicking off at 6:00 PM (AMT) in New York. Following that, the Brazilian team will take on Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday, 19 June 2026, with the match scheduled to start at 9:00 PM (AMT). Brazil will then conclude their Group C fixtures with a clash against Scotland on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, kicking off at 6:00 PM (AMT) in Miami.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule (Amazon Time)

For fans who follow Amazon Time (AMT), the 2026 World Cup offers a very easy schedule to watch. Most games will be played in the afternoon and evening, and there will be a few late-night games depending on the host city.

The usual game start times in AMT are around 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 9:00 PM, with a few late, night games. The first match on 11 June 2026 and the final on 19 July 2026 will be at 3:00 PM (AMT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, displayed in Amazon Time (AMT).

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
10:00 PM (AMT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
(Friday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
9:00 PM (AMT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
(Saturday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
6:00 PM (AMT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
9:00 PM (AMT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (AMT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
1:00 PM (AMT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
4:00 PM (AMT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
7:00 PM (AMT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
10:00 PM (AMT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
(Monday)
12:00 PM (AMT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
3:00 PM (AMT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
6:00 PM (AMT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
9:00 PM (AMT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
(Tuesday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
6:00 PM (AMT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
9:00 PM (AMT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
(Wednesday)
12:00 AM (AMT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
1:00 PM (AMT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
4:00 PM (AMT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
7:00 PM (AMT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
10:00 PM (AMT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
(Thursday)
12:00 PM (AMT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
3:00 PM (AMT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
6:00 PM (AMT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
9:00 PM (AMT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
(Friday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
6:00 PM (AMT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
9:00 PM (AMT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
(Saturday)
12:00 AM (AMT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
1:00 PM (AMT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
4:00 PM (AMT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
8:00 PM (AMT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (AMT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
12:00 PM (AMT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
3:00 PM (AMT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
6:00 PM (AMT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
9:00 PM (AMT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
(Monday)
1:00 PM (AMT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
5:00 PM (AMT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
8:00 PM (AMT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
11:00 PM (AMT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
(Tuesday)
1:00 PM (AMT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
4:00 PM (AMT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
7:00 PM (AMT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
10:00 PM (AMT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
(Wednesday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
3:00 PM (AMT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
6:00 PM (AMT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
6:00 PM (AMT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
9:00 PM (AMT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
9:00 PM (AMT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
(Thursday)
4:00 PM (AMT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
4:00 PM (AMT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
7:00 PM (AMT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
7:00 PM (AMT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
10:00 PM (AMT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
10:00 PM (AMT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
(Friday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
3:00 PM (AMT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
8:00 PM (AMT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
8:00 PM (AMT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
11:00 PM (AMT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
11:00 PM (AMT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
(Saturday)
5:00 PM (AMT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
5:00 PM (AMT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
7:30 PM (AMT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
7:30 PM (AMT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
10:00 PM (AMT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
10:00 PM (AMT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
(Sunday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
1:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
4:30 PM (AMT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
9:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
1:00 PM (AMT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
5:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
9:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
12:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
4:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
8:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
(Thursday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
7:00 PM (AMT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
11:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
(Friday)
2:00 PM (AMT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
6:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
9:30 PM (AMT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
(Saturday)
1:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
5:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
(Sunday)
4:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
8:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
(Monday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
8:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
12:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
4:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
4:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Saturday)
5:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
9:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Saturday)
5:00 PM (AMT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
(Sunday)
3:00 PM (AMT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be shared between three countries and 16 cities. It will be the most geographically spread World Cup in history.

The United States will be the main host for most games, and Canada and Mexico will be adding historic venues and enthusiastic crowds.

As games are held in different North American time zones, having the kick-off times in Amazon Time (AMT) is a good idea, so fans from the north and west of Brazil will be able to watch every game without getting mixed up.

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Brazil

  • TV Globo
  • SporTV
  • CazΓ©TV
  • Globoplay
  • FIFA+ (highlights and official coverage)

❓ Amazon Time (AMT) & 2026 FIFA World Cup – FAQs

Q1. What is Amazon Time (AMT)?
Amazon Time operates at UTCβˆ’4 and is used in parts of northern and western Brazil, including cities such as Manaus.

Q2. Does Amazon Time observe daylight saving time?
No. Brazil does not currently observe daylight saving time, so kick-off times remain consistent.

Q3. Are all matches shown in Amazon Time on this page?
Yes. All match times listed here are converted and displayed in Amazon Time (AMT).

Q4. Will Brazil be favourites in 2026?
As the most successful nation in World Cup history, Brazil will once again enter the tournament among the favourites.

With a fan-friendly schedule, legendary football heritage, and passion running deep across the Amazon region, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises unforgettable moments for supporters following the tournament in Amazon Time (AMT). Bookmark this page and follow every step of Brazil’s journey.

2026 World Cup Yellow & Red Card Rules – Suspensions Explained

At the expanded 2026 FIFA World Cup, discipline will play a decisive role alongside tactics and talent. With 48 teams, a new Round of 32 and more matches than ever before, understanding how yellow cards, red cards and suspensions work is essential for fans, players and coaches alike.

A single booking at the wrong moment can rule out a star player for a crucial knockout match, while fair play points may even decide which teams advance from the group stage. The information on this page is sourced from FIFA’s official regulations, which define every detail from when cards are wiped to how suspensions carry over.

Below is the complete details regarding disciplinary rules at the 2026 World Cup, explained in simpler language and as per FIFA’s official competition regulations.

🟨 Do Yellow Cards From Qualifiers Carry Into the World Cup?

No. All players begin the final tournament (from 11 June 2026) with a clean disciplinary record.

A single yellow card and pending cautions from the qualifying round are not carried over into the main tournament. This ensures that every player starts the tournament on equal terms.

However, suspensions caused by a red card in qualifiers may still be enforced at the World Cup, depending on the disciplinary ruling.

β›” When Is a Player Suspended for Yellow Cards?

During the 2026 World Cup, discipline follows a strict accumulation system.

If a player or team official receives two yellow cards in two different matches, he is automatically suspended for the next match. The suspension applies immediately, whether the next fixture is a group match or a knockout tie.

This rule applies equally to players and officials on the bench, making discipline management a crucial part of strategy.

πŸŸ₯ What Happens After a Red Card?

A red card brings immediate and serious consequences.

Any player or official sent off either through a direct red card or a second yellow in the same match is automatically suspended for his team’s next match.

In addition, FIFA may impose further sanctions depending on the severity of the offence. If the suspension cannot be served during the tournament because the team is eliminated, it will be carried over to the team’s next official international fixture.

πŸ”„ When Are Yellow Cards Reset at the 2026 World Cup?

One of the most important rules concerns the late stages of the tournament.

All accumulated yellow cards are cancelled after the quarter-finals. This means that players entering the semi-finals begin again with zero cautions, ensuring that the final is not decided by suspension due to earlier minor bookings.

Only red-card suspensions can prevent a player from appearing in the semi-finals or the final.

βš–οΈ How Fair Play Points Can Decide Qualification

Discipline can directly influence the qualification of the teams for the Knockout stage.

When teams are tied on points, goal difference and goals scored, FIFA applies a fair play ranking system based on cards received:

🟨 Yellow card:–1 point
πŸŸ₯ Second yellow (indirect red):–3 points
πŸ”΄ Direct red card:–4 points
🟨 + πŸ”΄ Yellow and direct red in the same match:–5 points

This system is especially important in deciding the ranking of tied teams and determining the eight best third-placed teams who advance to the Round of 32.

🚫 Can Yellow or Red Cards Be Appealed?

In almost all cases, the answer is no.

FIFA regulations state that referees’ decisions on facts connected with play are final. Yellow and red cards shown during a match cannot be appealed unless a serious administrative error has occurred.

Once the card is shown, the punishment stands.

πŸ“‹ Quick Summary – 2026 World Cup Card Rules

Situation Rule
Yellow cards from qualifiers Do NOT carry into the World Cup
Two yellow cards in different matches Automatic one-match suspension
Red card Automatic suspension + possible extra ban
Yellow cards reset After the quarter-finals
Fair play ranking Used as a tie-breaker
Appeals against cards Not allowed

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – World Cup Discipline Rules

How many yellow cards lead to suspension?
Two yellow cards in two different matches result in an automatic one-match suspension.

Are yellow cards reset before the final?
Yes. All yellow cards are cancelled after the quarter-finals so players start the semi-finals clean.

Can a red card suspension affect future tournaments?
Yes. If a suspension cannot be served during the World Cup, it carries over to the team’s next official match.

Do fair play points really matter?
Yes. They can decide group rankings and which third-placed teams qualify for the knockout stage.

At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, discipline will be a silent but decisive force. In a tournament defined by fine margins and historic scale, managing yellow cards, avoiding red cards and protecting key players could be the difference between lifting the trophy and an early exit.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT)

Few moments in sports are celebrated in Brazil like the opening of the FIFA World Cup. For Brazilian fans, it is all about when the games are playedβ€”and the 2026 FIFA World Cup fits perfectly into their daily rhythms. With matches hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the local kick-off times align comfortably with BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT), allowing fans to watch games live without sacrificing sleep.

The Brazilian fans’ day will be highly amicable, as most matches are scheduled during the afternoons, evenings, and nights. This applies not only to group-stage matches but also to knockout games, ensuring fans can enjoy the World Cup and still rest well.

This article presents the complete 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT), covering all 104 matches from the opening game on June 11 to the final on July 19, 2026. Whether you’re a couch viewer, a watch-party enthusiast, or a pub regular, this timetable is your ideal guide to the greatest football event on earth.

BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT) is based on UTCβˆ’3 and is observed throughout the year. As Brazil does not follow daylight saving time, all matches will kick off at consistent local times throughout the tournamentβ€”allowing fans to plan their World Cup viewing with confidence.

🌍 FIFA World Cup History at a Glance

Since the first-ever FIFA World Cup in 1930, the tournament has grown into the most-watched sporting event in the world. What began with just 13 teams has evolved into a global festival of football, emotion, and nationalism. From 2026 onwards, the competition expands to 48 teams, marking a new era of togetherness and worldwide representation.

World Cup history has been shaped more than anywhere else by Brazil. Renowned for their beautiful, entertaining, and attacking style of football, Brazil have consistently set the benchmark for performance on the world stage. From their early dominance to continued modern-era success, the SeleΓ§Γ£o has come to symbolize footballing excellence.

Brazil remain the most successful nation in FIFA World Cup history, having lifted the trophy a record five times. Their triumphs in 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, and 2002 not only delivered silverware but also introduced a distinct footballing philosophy that has influenced players and fans across the globe.

Below is a look at the most recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations United States, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used on this Page BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT, UTCβˆ’3)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Brazil at the FIFA World Cup

Brazil are the only country to have truly dominated the FIFA World Cup throughout its history. The SeleΓ§Γ£o, with their five world titles, have set trends across different eras, inspired generations through their example, and produced many of the greatest players the game has ever seen.

Brazil’s World Cup story is one of brilliance and determination. The 1958 team, defined by youth and flair, the iconic 1970 side that became a global legend, and the more recent triumphs in 1994 and 2002 all stand as proof of Brazil’s continued dominance in world football.

Even in tournaments where they have not lifted the trophy, Brazil have almost always reached the latter stages of the World Cupβ€”a level of consistency unmatched by any other nation. As a result, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is once again expected to see Brazil regarded as one of the strongest contenders for the title.

Final Position Times Achieved World Cup Years
Champions 5 1958, 1962, 1970, 1994, 2002
Runners-up 2 1950, 1998
Third Place 2 1938, 1978
Quarter-finals or better 13+ Multiple editions

Brazil’s Matches in BrasΓ­lia Time

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Saturday)
7:00 PM (BRT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
(Friday)
10:00 PM (BRT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
(Wednesday)
7:00 PM (BRT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C

Brazil will begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup journey against Morocco on Saturday, 13 June 2026, with a 7:00 PM (BRT) kick-off in New York. The Brazilian side will then take on Haiti in Philadelphia on Friday, 19 June 2026, starting at 10:00 PM (BRT). They will conclude their Group C campaign against Scotland on Wednesday, 24 June 2026, with a 7:00 PM (BRT) kick-off in Miami.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule (BrasΓ­lia Time)

For fans in Brazil, the 2026 World Cup offers a highly watchable schedule. Matches will be spread across afternoon, evening, and late-night kick-off slots, making BrasΓ­lia Time one of the most convenient time zones for following the tournament live.

Typical kick-off times in BRT will include 4:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 10:00 PM, and occasional late-night fixtures. This balance allows Brazilian supporters to follow every stage of the competition without disruption. Brazilian fans can watch the opening match between Mexico and South Africa on 11 June 2026 at 4:00 PM (BRT), while the all-important final will be televised on 19 July 2026 at 4:00 PM (BRT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, shown in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT). Use the filters to sort by team, venue, or stage.

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
11:00 PM (BRT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
(Friday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
10:00 PM (BRT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
(Saturday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
7:00 PM (BRT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
10:00 PM (BRT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (BRT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
2:00 PM (BRT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
5:00 PM (BRT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
8:00 PM (BRT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
11:00 PM (BRT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
(Monday)
1:00 PM (BRT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
4:00 PM (BRT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
7:00 PM (BRT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
10:00 PM (BRT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
(Tuesday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
7:00 PM (BRT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
10:00 PM (BRT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
(Wednesday)
1:00 AM (BRT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
2:00 PM (BRT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
5:00 PM (BRT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
8:00 PM (BRT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
11:00 PM (BRT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
(Thursday)
1:00 PM (BRT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
4:00 PM (BRT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
7:00 PM (BRT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
10:00 PM (BRT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
(Friday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
7:00 PM (BRT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
10:00 PM (BRT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (BRT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
2:00 PM (BRT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
5:00 PM (BRT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
9:00 PM (BRT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (BRT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
1:00 PM (BRT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
4:00 PM (BRT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
7:00 PM (BRT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
10:00 PM (BRT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
(Monday)
2:00 PM (BRT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
6:00 PM (BRT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
9:00 PM (BRT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
(Tuesday)
12:00 AM (BRT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
2:00 PM (BRT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
5:00 PM (BRT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
8:00 PM (BRT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
11:00 PM (BRT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
(Wednesday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
4:00 PM (BRT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
7:00 PM (BRT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
7:00 PM (BRT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
10:00 PM (BRT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
10:00 PM (BRT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
(Thursday)
5:00 PM (BRT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
5:00 PM (BRT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
8:00 PM (BRT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
8:00 PM (BRT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
11:00 PM (BRT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
11:00 PM (BRT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
(Friday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
4:00 PM (BRT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
9:00 PM (BRT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
9:00 PM (BRT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
(Saturday)
12:00 AM (BRT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
12:00 AM (BRT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
6:00 PM (BRT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
6:00 PM (BRT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
8:30 PM (BRT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
8:30 PM (BRT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
11:00 PM (BRT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
11:00 PM (BRT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
(Sunday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
2:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
5:30 PM (BRT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
10:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
2:00 PM (BRT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
6:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
10:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
1:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
5:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
9:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
(Thursday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
8:00 PM (BRT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
(Friday)
12:00 AM (BRT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
3:00 PM (BRT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
7:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
10:30 PM (BRT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
(Saturday)
2:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
6:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
(Sunday)
5:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
9:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
(Monday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
9:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
1:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
5:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
5:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Saturday)
6:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
10:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Saturday)
6:00 PM (BRT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
(Sunday)
4:00 PM (BRT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held in a total of three different countries in North America: 16 cities will serve as hosts, and hence, this World Cup will be the most geographically spread tournament ever in the history of the World Cup competitions.

Such an unusual triple, country hosting arrangement, the United States, Canada, and Mexico, also offers a great variety of match starting times, aligning perfectly with Brasilia Time (BRT).

United States

The United States will host the majority of matches, with fixtures taking place in New York / New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia, Seattle, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Kansas City.

Canada

Canada will host World Cup matches in Toronto and Vancouver, offering excellent evening viewing slots for Brazilian audiences.

Mexico

Mexico brings its deep footballing heritage to the tournament, hosting matches in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.

As games are going to be played in different North American time zones, the starting time of each game will depend on the host city. Showing the schedule in Brasilia Time (BRT) makes it easier for fans in Brazil to watch every game live and free of any misunderstanding or the need for a manual time conversion.

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Brazil

  • TV Globo
  • CazΓ©TV
  • SporTV
  • GloboPlay
  • FIFA+ (highlights and official coverage)

❓ BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT) & 2026 FIFA World Cup – FAQs

Q1. Are all match kick-off times shown in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT)?
Yes. Every match listed on this page is displayed in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT), so Brazilian fans do not need to convert times manually.

Q2. What is BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT)?
BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT) operates at UTCβˆ’3 and is used across most of Brazil, including major cities such as SΓ£o Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, BrasΓ­lia, Belo Horizonte, Salvador, and Recife.

Q3. Does Brazil observe daylight saving time during the 2026 World Cup?
No. Brazil currently does not observe daylight saving time.

Q4. What time of day will most World Cup matches kick off in BRT?
Most matches will kick off during the afternoon, evening, and late-night hours in BrasΓ­lia Time, with very few early-morning fixtures β€” making BRT one of the most fan-friendly time zones for the 2026 World Cup.

Q5. When will the 2026 FIFA World Cup final be played in BrasΓ­lia Time?
The final will take place on 19 July 2026, with the kick-off shown on this page in BrasΓ­lia Time (BRT).

Q6. Can Brazil win a sixth World Cup title in 2026?
As the most successful nation in World Cup history, Brazil will once again enter the tournament as one of the favourites, aiming to lift a historic sixth World Cup trophy.

With legendary history, passionate supporters, and a fan-friendly schedule in BrasΓ­lia Time, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises unforgettable moments for football lovers across Brazil. Bookmark this page and follow every kick of the SeleΓ§Γ£o’s journey.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in West Africa Time (WAT)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be an era-defining moment in the history of football. It will be the first time ever that the tournament gets co-hosted by three different countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The championship will include an increased number of teams to 48 and a record number of 104 matches, thus becoming the biggest World Cup in history. For around one month, starting from mid, June to mid, July, football excitement will be at its peak worldwide.

Due to matches being held across different North American time zones, it is crucial for football enthusiasts worldwide to accurately know the start times of matches. Fans in West Africa must be aware that some matches will take place in the evening, while others will be at midnight and very early in the morning, all depending on the city where the game will be hosted. This website is designed to simplify things by displaying the entire 2026 FIFA World Cup timetable in West Africa Time (WAT), so that you can stay tuned to every game.

🌍 A Quick Look Back at World Cup History

The very first FIFA World Cup was in 1930, and the host country was Uruguay. In those days, it was a rather small event, with only 13 teams entering. As time went by, this little event became a big phenomenon all over the world, and now it is the most-watched sporting event on the globe. Besides great, exciting games on the pitch, the fans get the legends of the game, and they bear witness to the moments that are so memorable that they are now counted as part of football history.

As time passed, the African football segment has been progressively recognized at the World Cup stage. The African countries have shown that they are capable of competing with the world’s best through the legendary Cameroon performance in 1990, Senegal’s amazing run in 2002, and Morocco’s journey to the semi-finals, thus making history at the 2022 World Cup. West African teams have, in particular, been a continuous source of inspiration with their flair, speed and determination in the world arena.

Below is a look at the most recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil
1998 France France

While Brazil remain the most successful nation with five titles, the expanded 48-team format in 2026 provides greater opportunities for African teams β€” including those from West Africa β€” to progress deeper into the tournament.

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations USA, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used West Africa Time (WAT, UTC+1)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA

⏰ West Africa Time (WAT): What It Is and Where It’s Used

West Africa Time (WAT) operates at UTC+1 (one hour ahead of GMT), and is used year-round without daylight saving time.Β If you are watching from any of the countries below, the kick-off times on this page apply directly to you:

  • Nigeria
  • Ghana
  • Cameroon
  • Senegal
  • Benin
  • Togo
  • Niger
  • Central African Republic (seasonal)

🏟️ How the 2026 FIFA World Cup Competition Format Works

The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces the most significant structural change in the tournament’s history, expanding from 32 to 48 teams. This new format is designed to include more nations, create additional knockout drama, and give teams from Africa and other confederations a greater chance to progress deeper into the competition.

  • The 48 qualified teams will be divided into 12 groups of four teams each.
  • Each team will play three group-stage matches in a round-robin format.
  • The top two teams from each group (24 teams) qualify automatically for the Round of 32 (knockout phase).
  • The eight best third-placed teams also advance, completing the Round of 32.

From the Round of 32 onwards, the tournament follows a single-elimination knockout format. To lift the World Cup trophy, the eventual champion must win five consecutive knockout matches, making squad depth, rotation, and consistency more important than ever.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule in West Africa Time (WAT)

For fans following West Africa Time (WAT), most group-stage matches will fall in the evening and late-night hours, with some fixtures extending into the early morning. Knockout-stage matches are generally more fan-friendly, often scheduled at night.

The opening match of the tournament will kick off on 11 June 2026 at 8:00 PM (WAT), while the final will take place on 19 July 2026 at 8:00 PM (WAT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, with kick-off times shown in West Africa Time (WAT).

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
8:00 PM (WAT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
(Friday)
3:00 AM (WAT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
8:00 PM (WAT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
(Saturday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
8:00 PM (WAT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
11:00 PM (WAT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
(Sunday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
5:00 AM (WAT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
6:00 PM (WAT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
9:00 PM (WAT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
(Monday)
12:00 AM (WAT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
3:00 AM (WAT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
5:00 PM (WAT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
8:00 PM (WAT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
11:00 PM (WAT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
(Tuesday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
8:00 PM (WAT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
11:00 PM (WAT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
(Wednesday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
5:00 AM (WAT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
6:00 PM (WAT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
9:00 PM (WAT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
(Thursday)
12:00 AM (WAT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
3:00 AM (WAT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
5:00 PM (WAT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
8:00 PM (WAT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
11:00 PM (WAT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
(Friday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
8:00 PM (WAT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
11:00 PM (WAT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
(Saturday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
5:00 AM (WAT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
6:00 PM (WAT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
9:00 PM (WAT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
5:00 AM (WAT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
5:00 PM (WAT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
8:00 PM (WAT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
11:00 PM (WAT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
(Monday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
6:00 PM (WAT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
10:00 PM (WAT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
4:00 AM (WAT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
6:00 PM (WAT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
9:00 PM (WAT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
(Wednesday)
12:00 AM (WAT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
3:00 AM (WAT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
8:00 PM (WAT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
8:00 PM (WAT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
11:00 PM (WAT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
11:00 PM (WAT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
(Thursday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
2:00 AM (WAT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
9:00 PM (WAT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
9:00 PM (WAT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
(Friday)
12:00 AM (WAT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
12:00 AM (WAT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
3:00 AM (WAT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
3:00 AM (WAT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
8:00 PM (WAT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
8:00 PM (WAT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
1:00 AM (WAT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
4:00 AM (WAT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
4:00 AM (WAT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
10:00 PM (WAT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
10:00 PM (WAT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
(Sunday)
12:30 AM (WAT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
12:30 AM (WAT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
3:00 AM (WAT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
3:00 AM (WAT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
8:00 PM (WAT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
6:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
9:30 PM (WAT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
6:00 PM (WAT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
10:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
5:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
9:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
(Thursday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
(Friday)
12:00 AM (WAT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
4:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
7:00 PM (WAT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
11:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
(Saturday)
2:30 AM (WAT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
6:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
10:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
(Sunday)
9:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
(Monday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
5:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
9:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
9:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Saturday)
10:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
(Sunday)
2:00 AM (WAT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Saturday)
10:00 PM (WAT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
(Sunday)
8:00 PM (WAT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be staged across 16 host cities in three countries, making it the most geographically expansive tournament ever.

United States will host the majority of matches in New York / New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, Philadelphia, and Kansas City.

Canada will welcome matches in Toronto and Vancouver, while Mexico will host games in Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.

Because matches are spread across multiple North American time zones, having a West Africa Time (WAT)-based schedule is essential for accurate planning.

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in West Africa

  • Nigeria: NTA, SuperSport
  • Ghana: GTV, SuperSport
  • Senegal: RTS, New World TV
  • Cameroon: CRTV, New World TV
  • DStv Stream
  • New World TV App
  • FIFA+ (highlights and official content)

❓ West Africa Time (WAT) & 2026 FIFA World Cup – FAQs

What is West Africa Time (WAT)?
WAT operates at UTC+1 and does not observe daylight saving time.

Are all match times shown in WAT?
Yes. Every fixture on this page is displayed in West Africa Time.

When is the World Cup final in WAT?
The final will be played on 19 July 2026 at 8:00 PM (WAT).

With West Africa firmly aligned to West Africa Time, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises thrilling nights of football. Bookmark this page, keep the WAT schedule handy, and enjoy every kick of the world’s biggest tournament.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in East Africa Time (EAT)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a landmark event in world football history. The tournament will be split between three countries for the first time ever the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Also, the competition will feature 48 teams, making it the biggest World Cup ever with the most games, the most venues, and the most different times to start the games. Fans of the game will be united by football again from mid, June to mid, July.

There will be 104 matches in North America spread across different time zones, so it is really necessary to keep track of the times when the games start. Most of the match times for football fans in East Africa will be during late evening, night, and early morning. This page has it all by showing the entire 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule in East African Time (EAT), which makes it very easy to follow every game start time.

🌍 A Quick Look Back at World Cup History

The first FIFA World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay, and only 13 teams took part in it. Now, almost 100 years later, it’s the biggest sports event globally and every four years we get to see great matches, players who become legends and moments that are simply unforgettable.

There is no doubt that African football has made significant progress over the years at the global level. The remarkable performances of Cameroon (1990), Senegal (2002), Ghana (2010), and Morocco (2022) have challenged the perception that African countries can’t match the best teams. These matches have resulted in increased hope for East African fans that there will be more breakthroughs in the future.

Recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations USA, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used East Africa Time (EAT, UTC +3)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA

⏰ East Africa Time (EAT): What It Is and Where It’s Used

East Africa Time (EAT) operates at UTC+3 and does not observe daylight saving time.Β If you’re watching from any of the countries below, the kick-off times shown on this page is applicable to you:

  • Kenya
  • Tanzania
  • Uganda
  • Ethiopia
  • Somalia
  • Eritrea
  • Djibouti
  • South Sudan

Football passion runs deep across East Africa, where the World Cup brings communities together across borders. While qualification has historically been challenging, the expanded 48-team format offers African nations greater opportunity than ever before.

For fans in East Africa, the 2026 World Cup represents hope, progress, and growing African representation on football’s biggest stage.

🏟️ How the 2026 FIFA World Cup Competition Format Works

  • The 48 teams involved in the World Cup are divided into 12 groups of 4 teams in each group.
  • Each team plays three group-stage matches, or in other words, each team will face all other teams of its group once.
  • The 24 first and second ranked team and 8 best third-ranked teams based on performance in the group stage will qualify for the Round of 32, which is a Knockout round.

From the Round of 32 onward, the tournament follows a single-elimination knockout format. To lift the trophy, the champions must win five knockout matches in a row.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule in East Africa Time (EAT)

For viewers following East Africa Time (EAT), most group-stage matches will take place during the late night and early morning hours, while many knockout-stage fixtures fall into more manageable night-time slots.

The opening match will be played on 11 June 2026 at 10:00 PM (EAT), while the final will take place on 19 July 2026 at 10:00 PM (EAT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, shown in East African Time (EAT).

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
10:00 PM (EAT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
(Friday)
5:00 AM (EAT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
10:00 PM (EAT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
(Saturday)
4:00 AM (EAT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
10:00 PM (EAT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
4:00 AM (EAT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
7:00 AM (EAT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
8:00 PM (EAT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
11:00 PM (EAT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
(Monday)
2:00 AM (EAT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
5:00 AM (EAT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
7:00 PM (EAT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
10:00 PM (EAT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
4:00 AM (EAT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
10:00 PM (EAT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
(Wednesday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
4:00 AM (EAT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
7:00 AM (EAT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
8:00 PM (EAT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
11:00 PM (EAT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
(Thursday)
2:00 AM (EAT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
5:00 AM (EAT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
7:00 PM (EAT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
10:00 PM (EAT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
(Friday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
4:00 AM (EAT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
10:00 PM (EAT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
4:00 AM (EAT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
7:00 AM (EAT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
8:00 PM (EAT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
11:00 PM (EAT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
(Sunday)
3:00 AM (EAT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
7:00 AM (EAT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
7:00 PM (EAT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
10:00 PM (EAT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
(Monday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
4:00 AM (EAT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
8:00 PM (EAT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
(Tuesday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
3:00 AM (EAT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
6:00 AM (EAT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
8:00 PM (EAT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
11:00 PM (EAT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
(Wednesday)
2:00 AM (EAT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
5:00 AM (EAT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
10:00 PM (EAT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
10:00 PM (EAT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
(Thursday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
1:00 AM (EAT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
4:00 AM (EAT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
4:00 AM (EAT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
11:00 PM (EAT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
11:00 PM (EAT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
(Friday)
2:00 AM (EAT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
2:00 AM (EAT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
5:00 AM (EAT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
5:00 AM (EAT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
10:00 PM (EAT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
10:00 PM (EAT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
(Saturday)
3:00 AM (EAT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
3:00 AM (EAT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
6:00 AM (EAT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
6:00 AM (EAT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
12:00 AM (EAT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
2:30 AM (EAT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
2:30 AM (EAT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
5:00 AM (EAT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
5:00 AM (EAT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
10:00 PM (EAT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
8:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
11:30 PM (EAT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
4:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
8:00 PM (EAT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
4:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
7:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
11:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
(Thursday)
3:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
(Friday)
2:00 AM (EAT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
6:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
9:00 PM (EAT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
4:30 AM (EAT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
8:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
11:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
(Monday)
3:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
3:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
7:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
11:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
11:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
4:00 AM (EAT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (EAT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
10:00 PM (EAT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across 16 cities in three North American countries.

United States: New York / New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, Philadelphia, Kansas City

Canada: Toronto, Vancouver

Mexico: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in East Africa

Pan-African Broadcasters

  • New World TV – French-language rights holder for much of Sub-Saharan Africa
  • SuperSport (DStv/GOtv) – Full English-language coverage across East Africa

Country-Specific Broadcasters (Indicative)

  • Kenya: KBC, SuperSport
  • Tanzania: TBC, SuperSport
  • Uganda: UBC, SuperSport
  • Ethiopia: EBC

Digital Platforms

  • DStv Stream & Showmax
  • New World TV App
  • FIFA+

❓ East Africa Time (EAT) & 2026 FIFA World Cup – FAQs

Does EAT observe daylight saving time?
No. EAT remains constant at UTC +3 throughout the year.

Are all match times shown in EAT?
Yes. All kick-off times on this page are converted to East Africa Time.

When is the World Cup final in EAT?
The final will kick off on 19 July 2026 at 10:00 PM (EAT).

With East Africa aligned under East Africa Time, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises unforgettable nights of football. Bookmark this page, keep the EAT schedule close, and follow every moment of the tournament.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in Ecuador Time (ECT)

There are few things that frustrate football fans more than realizing that a FIFA World Cup match has already kicked off β€” or even finished β€” before you had the chance to watch it live. Thankfully, for fans in Ecuador, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a largely comfortable and highly manageable viewing experience.

With the tournament taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, most matches will kick off during the afternoon and evening hours in Ecuador Time (ECT). While a handful of fixtures may fall late at night or in the early morning, Ecuadorian supporters will be spared the extremely early kick-offs that fans in many European and Asian time zones often have to endure.

This balanced scheduling allows you to enjoy the World Cup with minimal disruption, whether it is a group-stage encounter or a high-profile knockout match. Watching from home, gathering with friends, or heading out to public screenings, the 2026 edition is shaping up to be a truly fan-friendly tournament for spectators in Ecuador.

This site provides the complete 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule converted into Ecuador Time (ECT), covering all 104 matches β€” from the opening game on 11 June 2026 to the final on 19 July 2026. With every kick-off shown in local time, you can plan your viewing hours with ease and ensure you never miss a single moment of the action.

Ecuador Time (ECT) operates at UTCβˆ’5 and is observed consistently throughout the year. As Ecuador does not follow daylight saving time, there are no clock changes during the tournament, meaning kick-off times remain the same from start to finish β€” with no spring or fall time adjustments to worry about.

🌍 FIFA World Cup History at a Glance

The first FIFA World Cup in 1930 in Uruguay has become the largest global sporting event. Only 13 teams participated in the first World Cup, but now it is a worldwide event held every four years with millions of fans coming from all over the world.

South American countries were very instrumental in the first stage of the World Cup by surprising the world with their passionate playing style and excellent skills. However, European countries soon dominated, thereby starting the competition rivalry which has been the core of the tournament ever since.

The tournament will now feature a record 48 teams in 2026, and the total number of matches will go up to 104. Every tournament edition is filled with insane scenes, unexpected ousting of the top teams, and amazing players who leave their mark on the game of football.

Below are the most recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations United States, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used Ecuador Time (ECT, UTCβˆ’5)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Ecuador & the FIFA World Cup

Ecuador have established itself as a competitive and respected force in international football over the past two decades. Known for their physical intensity, disciplined structure, and strong home performances, Ecuador regularly challenge South America’s traditional powers.

Ecuador made their World Cup debut in 2002 and reached their greatest achievement in 2006, advancing to the Round of 16. Since then, they have continued to qualify for major tournaments and develop talent capable of competing at the highest level.

With the expanded 48-team format in 2026, Ecuador enter the tournament with renewed confidence and realistic ambitions of reaching the knockout stages once again.

Ecuador’s Matches in Ecuador Time (ECT)

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Sunday)
6:00 PM (ECT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
(Saturday)
7:00 PM (ECT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
(Thursday)
3:00 PM (ECT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E

La Tri will start their campaign against the Ivory Coast on 14 June 2026 at 6:00 PM (ECT). The first match would be important for the team to set the tone for the entire tournament. In its second match, Ecuador will face Curacao, a relatively new name in FIFA World Cups. The match will take place on 20 June 2026 at 7:00 PM (ECT). The third and final group stage match for Ecuador will be against the ever-powerful and 4 times title holders Germany on 25 June 2026 at 3:00 PM (ECT). So for La Tri, it is very important to win the first two group stage matches.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule (Ecuador Time)

For fans following the tournament in Ecuador Time (ECT), kick-off times will generally fall in the afternoon, evening, and late-night hours. Matches scheduled in the western regions of North America may push into early morning, but overall viewing conditions remain manageable.

The first match featuring Mexico and South Africa will kick off on 11 June 2026 at 2:00 PM (ECT), while the World Cup final will take place on 19 July 2026 at 2:00 PM (ECT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, with kick-off times shown in Ecuador Time (ECT). Use the filters to quickly find fixtures by team, stage, or venue.

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
9:00 PM (ECT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
(Friday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
8:00 PM (ECT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
(Saturday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
5:00 PM (ECT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
8:00 PM (ECT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
11:00 PM (ECT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
(Sunday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
3:00 PM (ECT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
6:00 PM (ECT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
9:00 PM (ECT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
(Monday)
11:00 AM (ECT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
2:00 PM (ECT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
5:00 PM (ECT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
8:00 PM (ECT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
(Tuesday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
5:00 PM (ECT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
8:00 PM (ECT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
11:00 PM (ECT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
(Wednesday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
3:00 PM (ECT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
6:00 PM (ECT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
9:00 PM (ECT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
(Thursday)
11:00 AM (ECT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
2:00 PM (ECT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
5:00 PM (ECT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
8:00 PM (ECT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
(Friday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
5:00 PM (ECT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
8:00 PM (ECT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
11:00 PM (ECT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
(Saturday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
3:00 PM (ECT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
7:00 PM (ECT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
11:00 PM (ECT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
(Sunday)
11:00 AM (ECT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
2:00 PM (ECT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
5:00 PM (ECT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
8:00 PM (ECT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
(Monday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
4:00 PM (ECT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
7:00 PM (ECT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
10:00 PM (ECT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
(Tuesday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
3:00 PM (ECT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
6:00 PM (ECT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
9:00 PM (ECT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
(Wednesday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
2:00 PM (ECT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
5:00 PM (ECT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
5:00 PM (ECT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
8:00 PM (ECT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
8:00 PM (ECT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
(Thursday)
3:00 PM (ECT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
3:00 PM (ECT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
6:00 PM (ECT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
6:00 PM (ECT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
9:00 PM (ECT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
9:00 PM (ECT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
(Friday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
2:00 PM (ECT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
7:00 PM (ECT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
7:00 PM (ECT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
10:00 PM (ECT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
10:00 PM (ECT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
(Saturday)
4:00 PM (ECT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
4:00 PM (ECT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
6:30 PM (ECT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
6:30 PM (ECT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
9:00 PM (ECT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
9:00 PM (ECT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
(Sunday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
3:30 PM (ECT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
8:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
4:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
8:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
11:00 AM (ECT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
3:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
7:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
(Thursday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
6:00 PM (ECT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
10:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
(Friday)
1:00 PM (ECT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
5:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
8:30 PM (ECT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
(Saturday)
12:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
4:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
(Sunday)
3:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
7:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
(Monday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
7:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
11:00 AM (ECT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
3:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
3:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Saturday)
4:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
8:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Saturday)
4:00 PM (ECT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
(Sunday)
2:00 PM (ECT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across three countries and 16 cities, making it the most geographically diverse World Cup in history.

United States
New York / New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area, Boston, Philadelphia, Kansas City
Canada
Toronto, Vancouver
Mexico
Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Ecuador

  • Teleamazonas
  • ECDF (El Canal del FΓΊtbol)
  • DirecTV Sports
  • FIFA+ – highlights, replays, and official content

❓ 2026 FIFA World Cup in Ecuador – FAQs

Are kick-off times shown in Ecuador local time?
Yes. All match times on this page are displayed in Ecuador Time (ECT).

Does Ecuador observe daylight saving time?
No. Ecuador uses UTCβˆ’5 throughout the year, so kick-off times remain consistent.

Will most matches be easy to watch live in Ecuador?
Yes. Many games fall in the afternoon and evening, with fewer early-morning fixtures compared to Europe and Asia.

With consistent local timings and a globally connected tournament format, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises an engaging and accessible experience for fans across Ecuador. Bookmark this ECT schedule and enjoy every kick from the opening match to the final whistle.

Trionda – The Official Match Ball of the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Every World Cup leaves behind an image that outlives the final scoreline. In 1970 it was the black-and-white Telstar spinning into colour television history. In 2010, the controversial Jabulani swerved through South African air. In 2022, Al Rihla raced across Qatari stadiums at unprecedented speed. For the expanded, continent-spanning, that defining visual will be a white ball streaked with red, blue, and green waves: Trionda.

Created for the first 48-team World Cup in history, Trionda is built to cope with scale. This tournament will be played across three countries, multiple climates, varying altitudes and a record number of matches. The ball at the centre of it all has been engineered for one overriding goal: absolute consistency.

🌍 A Name That Reflects Three Hosts

The name β€œTrionda” blends two ideas. β€œTri” points to the three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. β€œOnda”, Spanish for wave, captures the movement of football culture flowing across borders.

That concept is carried directly into the design. Flowing wave graphics wrap around the ball in three dominant colours:

  • Red, echoing Canada’s national palette
  • Blue, a nod to the United States
  • Green, drawn from Mexico’s colours and pre-Columbian visual motifs

Rather than separating these identities, the design interlocks them. No single colour dominates. Like the tournament itself, the ball is a shared stage.

🧩 The Fewest Panels in World Cup History

For decades, footballs were stitched from dozens of pieces. Modern World Cups have steadily reduced that number to improve aerodynamics. Trionda takes the idea further than ever before.

It uses just four large, thermally bonded panels.

  • Fewer seams mean smoother airflow
  • A near-seamless surface reduces unpredictable movement
  • Thermal bonding prevents water absorption in wet conditions

The objective is simple: when a player strikes the ball, it should travel exactly as intended, whether that strike happens in humid summer heat, dry desert air, or a cool night under a closed stadium roof.

🎯 Tuned for Modern, High-Speed Football

Today’s elite game is faster and more vertical than ever. Long diagonal passes, early crosses, and shots from distance are routine. Trionda’s shape and surface texture are designed to support that style.

A finely textured outer skin gives players more grip and control at contact. Inside, a precision-engineered core maintains roundness and air pressure over repeated impacts.

The result is a ball that holds its line in flight. Goalkeepers get fewer surprises. Strikers get a truer strike. Midfielders can switch play with confidence that the ball will not dip or wobble unexpectedly.

🏟️ Built for a Continent, Not a City

Most World Cups are confined to one country. In 2026, teams will travel thousands of kilometres between matches. Conditions will vary dramatically from venue to venue.

Engineering the ball for that reality was crucial. Trionda is tested to behave the same:

  • At sea level and at altitude
  • On natural grass and hybrid surfaces
  • In dry heat, humidity, and cooler evening air

For players, that uniformity removes one variable from an already demanding tournament.

πŸ“œ A New Chapter in a Long Line of Icons

Every generation remembers a World Cup ball. Some became loved classics, others sparked debate, but each marked a step in football’s technical evolution.

Year Ball What Changed
1970 Telstar Black/white pattern for television
1998 Tricolore First multi-colour World Cup ball
2006 Teamgeist Thermally bonded panels replace stitching
2010 Jabulani Radical aerodynamics, heavy debate
2014 Brazuca Greater flight stability
2018 Telstar 18 Integrated digital/NFC features
2022 Al Rihla Faster, more direct trajectory
2026 Trionda Ultra-smooth four-panel construction

Trionda’s legacy will ultimately be written by the moments played with it: opening goals, last-minute winners, and perhaps the decisive kick of the final.

⚽ One Ball for Every Match

From the first group game to the championship decider, the same core Trionda model will be used throughout the tournament. Special cosmetic editions may appear for landmark matches, but the performance characteristics will remain identical.

That continuity ensures players are always competing with the same feel and response under their boots, no matter the stage or the stakes.

World Cups are remembered through images as much as through scorelines. In 2026, when highlights roll for decades to come, the ball flashing through those frames will carry the colours of three nations and the imprint of a new era.

Trionda is designed to be invisible in the best possible way: not a talking point, not a distraction, but a precise, reliable instrument for the world’s best players on football’s biggest stage.

How Host Nations Perform at the World Cup: A 90-Year Analysis

For more than 90 years, hosting the FIFA World Cup has left a mark that goes well beyond the final score. In some countries, it has produced defining moments β€” titles that still get replayed every four years. In others, it has meant disappointment that never quite fades. Either way, host nations have almost always been central to how each World Cup is remembered.

Playing at home comes with obvious advantages. Hosts qualify automatically. They know the stadiums, the climate and the routine. And they play with the backing of crowds that can tilt momentum in subtle but important ways. But that same setting also creates pressure few teams are equipped to handle. Expectations rise quickly, mistakes feel heavier, and the margin for error shrinks under constant attention.

This analysis looks back across nine decades of World Cup history, beginning in 1930, to see how host nations have actually performed when the tournament arrived on their doorstep. With the sport now moving toward a first-ever World Cup hosted by three countries in 2026, those past results help explain why hosting has never been simply an advantage β€” and never a guarantee.

🏟️ Why Hosting the World Cup Matters

From the moment a host is confirmed, the competitive landscape changes.

Automatic qualification removes the uncertainty and physical demands of a lengthy qualifying campaign. Familiar stadiums, training environments, climate conditions and reduced travel all provide hosts with a level of comfort visiting teams must adapt to quickly.

At the same time, hosting intensifies scrutiny. Team selection, tactical decisions and even refereeing moments are judged through a national lens. Playing a World Cup at home compresses timelines and magnifies consequences in a way few international sides ever experience.

πŸ“Š Host Nation Performance: A Historical Overview (1930–2022)

Across 22 men’s World Cups, host nations have usually done more than just show up. In most cases, they’ve played above their long-term standard, not below it.

Six hosts have ended the tournament as champions. Most others have at least made it out of the group stage. Early elimination has been the exception rather than the norm, often remembered as a defining failure rather than a routine outcome. For hosts, failure isn’t just an exit. It becomes part of the tournament’s story.

Year Host Nation Final Result
1930 Uruguay Winners
1934 Italy Winners
1938 France Quarter-finals
1950 Brazil Runners-up
1958 Sweden Runners-up
1962 Chile Third place
1966 England Winners
1970 Mexico Quarter-finals
1974 West Germany Winners
1978 Argentina Winners
1982 Spain Second group stage
1986 Mexico Quarter-finals
1990 Italy Third place
1994 United States Round of 16
1998 France Winners
2002 South Korea Fourth place
2006 Germany Third place
2010 South Africa Group stage
2014 Brazil Fourth place
2018 Russia Quarter-finals
2022 Qatar Group stage

Taken together, the data shows that host nations tend to outperform the tournament average, even though hosting alone has never guaranteed a World Cup title.

πŸ† How Often Do Host Nations Win?

Hosting the World Cup has usually meant more than just familiarity with the stadiums.

Six of the 22 tournaments have been won by the host nation, which translates to approximately 27% have been won by the host nation. That number is not accidental. For much of the competition’s early history, playing at home came with real advantages such as lighter travel, better preparation, and conditions that visiting teams often struggled to adjust to. Between 1930 and 1998, those edges mattered.

They matter far less now. Since France won on home soil in 1998, no host has repeated the feat. The modern game has closed the gap. Travel is easier. Facilities are comparable. Talent is spread more evenly. What once felt like an advantage has become just another variable.

That historical success makes the modern era stand out even more. Since the late 1990s, hosting the World Cup has stopped translating into titles, despite better preparation and greater investment. This analysis looks at why no host has lifted the trophy since 1998, and what changed in the modern game.

πŸ“‰ Decade-by-Decade Trends in Host Performance

1930–1958: The early World Cups were tilted heavily toward the host. International travel was limited, preparation varied wildly, and visiting teams often arrived undercooked. In that environment, it’s no surprise that hosts reached the final in four of the first six tournaments.

1960s–1980s: Home advantage didn’t disappear, but it softened. Tactical thinking improved, teams traveled better, and coaching standards began to level out. Hosts were still expected to go deep, though crashing out early was no longer unthinkable.

1990s–Present: The modern game has changed the equation. Player development is global, sports science is universal, and officiating is more standardized than ever. Hosts still tend to perform well, but the days of assuming dominance on home soil are long gone.

βš–οΈ The Pressure Paradox

Hosting tends to lift the baseline. It also narrows the margin for error.

Brazil in 2014 showed how quickly that balance can turn. The buildup was long. The talent was there. The pressure kept rising anyway. When it collapsed, it did so in full view of the world, producing one of the most brutal results the tournament has seen.

The same pattern shows up elsewhere. Spain in 1982. Qatar in 2022. Facilities were ready. Planning was thorough. None of it solved deeper issues β€” gaps in quality, fragile confidence, or the weight that comes with playing at home.

🌍 Geography, Travel and Continental Advantage

Knowing the environment still counts at the World Cup.

Climate matters. Altitude matters. So does recovery time, and the feeling of playing with the crowd close enough to lean a game. In earlier tournaments, teams flying across continents often arrived with problems they couldn’t fix once the matches started. There simply wasn’t time.

Those gaps are smaller now. Travel is smoother. Preparation is smarter. But they haven’t vanished. Familiar conditions still offer small edges, and at this level, small edges are often enough.

πŸ“Œ What History Suggests for the 2026 World Cup Hosts

The 2026 FIFA World Cup won’t follow the usual script.

Three countries will share hosting duties. The field expands to 48 teams. Both changes pull against the idea of a single nation enjoying a clear home-field edge. Familiarity will be spread thin, and long travel days won’t disappear just because matches are staged locally for someone else.

History still offers a guide, though. Winning the tournament as a host now looks improbable. Going deep does not. One of the host nations pushing into the latter knockout rounds remains a reasonable expectation, even in a format designed to flatten traditional advantages.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Host Nations at the World Cup

Have host nations ever failed to reach the knockout stage?
Yes. South Africa in 2010 and Qatar in 2022 were eliminated at the group stage.

When did a host nation last win the World Cup?
France won in 1998.

Does hosting guarantee success?
No. Hosting increases opportunity and expectation, but results are still determined on the pitch.

Across 90 years of World Cup history, host nations have seldom been mere spectators. Hosting amplifies ambition, intensifies scrutiny and reshapes tournaments, but it does not override football’s central truth. Even on home soil, success must still be earned.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in Israel Standard Time (IST)

Few things frustrate football fans more than discovering that a World Cup match has already kicked off β€” or worse, finished β€” while they were asleep. For supporters in Israel, the 2026 FIFA World Cup presents a unique challenge, as the time difference means that almost all matches will be played late at night or in the very early morning hours.

With the tournament hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Israeli fans can expect the World Cup to unfold largely as late-night football. Group-stage fixtures, knockout matches, and even the final will be at 10:00 PM in Israel.

Israel Standard Time (IST) is the country’s primary time zone and is normally observed as UTC +2. But, during the summer months, clocks move forward by one hour to Israel Daylight Time (IDT), which is UTC +3. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place in June and July, the tournament will be held entirely during the daylight saving period. Therefore, all kick-off times listed on this page are shown in Israel Daylight Time (UTC +3), while the overall reference remains Israel Standard Time.

This page displays the complete 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule converted into Israel Standard Time, covering all 104 matches from the opening game on 11 June to the final on 19 July 2026.

Whether you are planning to stay up late or set early-morning alarms, this timetable ensures you won’t miss a single moment of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

🌍 FIFA World Cup History at a Glance

The FIFA World Cup has been a thrilling and dramatic tournament since its first edition in Uruguay in 1930, when just 13 teams competed for the trophy. Over time, the competition has evolved into a global football marathon featuring 48 teams, capturing the attention of fans around the world. The World Cup’s popularity extends even to countries that have never qualified for the finals, highlighting its unmatched global appeal. Held once every four years, each edition leaves behind a rich collection of unforgettable memories.

In the early years, South American teams dominated the tournament, but over time, European nations rose to prominence and reshaped the competitive balance. As footballing power has shifted across continents and generations, the World Cup has come to represent unpredictability β€” a trait that is expected to define the 2026 edition as well.

Today, the FIFA World Cup is widely regarded as the most-watched sporting event in the world, consistently delivering iconic goals, legendary matches, and moments that have become part of football history. Brazil remain the most successful nation with a record five titles, followed by Germany and Italy with four each, while the current champions, Argentina, have lifted the trophy three times.

The most recent tournament, Qatar 2022, produced one of the highest-quality finals ever played. With the expanded 48-team format set for 2026, the stage is once again prepared for greater drama, unexpected results, and the creation of new historic moments. Here are some recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations United States, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used Israel Daylight Time (IDT, UTC +3)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Israel in International Football

Football in Israel has a long and established history and remains one of the most popular sports in the country. The Israel national football team competes in European competitions and qualifiers, regularly facing some of the strongest teams in Europe.

Israel’s most memorable moment at the FIFA World Cup came in 1970, when the team qualified for the tournament in Mexico. During that edition, Israel reached the group stage and earned a highly impressive draw against Italy, who went on to reach the final that year.

Although Israel has not returned to the World Cup finals since 1970, the nation continues to challenge itself in international football. Strong domestic clubs, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a growing focus on youth development programs have helped keep football deeply rooted in Israeli sporting culture.

Despite the time difference, Israeli football fans will be able to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup live, even if it means staying up late or waking up early. As the biggest football event in the world, the tournament promises unforgettable moments for fans everywhere.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule (Israel Standard Time)

Israel fans should be prepared for the FIFA World Cup games to be held late evenings, nights, and very early mornings. During the group stage, the earliest time of the football matches is 7:00 PM IDT and the latest is around midnight, with the majority of the games kicking off between 10:00 PM and 1:00 AM, but some games will be held at the early morning hours between 4:00 AM and 7:00 AM. Once the tournament goes into the rounds of knockout, the matches are still played in a wide time window, including evening (8:00-10:00 PM IDT), night, and very early morning hours.

The first match of the tournament, featuring Mexico and South Africa, will be broadcast in Israel onΒ  11 June 2026 at 10:00 PM (IDT), and the all-important final match is planned for 19 July 2026 at 10:00 PM IDT, an excellent late evening event for the Israeli audience.

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, with kick-off times automatically converted to Israel Time (IDT). Use the filters to sort by team, venue, or stage.

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
10:00 PM (IDT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
(Friday)
5:00 AM (IDT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
10:00 PM (IDT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
(Saturday)
4:00 AM (IDT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
10:00 PM (IDT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
4:00 AM (IDT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
7:00 AM (IDT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
8:00 PM (IDT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
11:00 PM (IDT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
(Monday)
2:00 AM (IDT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
5:00 AM (IDT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
7:00 PM (IDT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
10:00 PM (IDT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
4:00 AM (IDT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
10:00 PM (IDT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
(Wednesday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
4:00 AM (IDT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
7:00 AM (IDT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
8:00 PM (IDT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
11:00 PM (IDT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
(Thursday)
2:00 AM (IDT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
5:00 AM (IDT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
7:00 PM (IDT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
10:00 PM (IDT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
(Friday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
4:00 AM (IDT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
10:00 PM (IDT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
4:00 AM (IDT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
7:00 AM (IDT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
8:00 PM (IDT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
11:00 PM (IDT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
(Sunday)
3:00 AM (IDT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
7:00 AM (IDT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
7:00 PM (IDT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
10:00 PM (IDT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
(Monday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
4:00 AM (IDT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
8:00 PM (IDT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
(Tuesday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
3:00 AM (IDT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
6:00 AM (IDT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
8:00 PM (IDT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
11:00 PM (IDT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
(Wednesday)
2:00 AM (IDT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
5:00 AM (IDT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
10:00 PM (IDT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
10:00 PM (IDT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
(Thursday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
1:00 AM (IDT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
4:00 AM (IDT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
4:00 AM (IDT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
11:00 PM (IDT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
11:00 PM (IDT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
(Friday)
2:00 AM (IDT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
2:00 AM (IDT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
5:00 AM (IDT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
5:00 AM (IDT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
10:00 PM (IDT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
10:00 PM (IDT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
(Saturday)
3:00 AM (IDT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
3:00 AM (IDT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
6:00 AM (IDT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
6:00 AM (IDT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
12:00 AM (IDT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
2:30 AM (IDT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
2:30 AM (IDT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
5:00 AM (IDT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
5:00 AM (IDT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
10:00 PM (IDT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
8:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
11:30 PM (IDT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
4:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
8:00 PM (IDT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
4:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
7:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
11:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
(Thursday)
3:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
(Friday)
2:00 AM (IDT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
6:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
9:00 PM (IDT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
4:30 AM (IDT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
8:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
11:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
(Monday)
3:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
3:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
7:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
11:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
11:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
4:00 AM (IDT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (IDT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
10:00 PM (IDT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌎 2026 FIFA World Cup Host Nations

The 2026 FIFA World Cup would be co-hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In fact, this would be the first ever World Cup to have three host nations and the largest geographical area spread for the tournament.

Matches will be held in various cities and stadiums all over North America, covering several time zones. Wherever a game is held, this page gives all the times of the matches (kick-off) in Israel Standard Time (IST) automatically, so that if one wants to watch, it would be easy and accurate.

Host Country Number of Host Cities
United States 11 (New York / New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Boston, Philadelphia, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area and Kansas City)
Canada 2 ( Toronto and Vancouver)
Mexico 3 (Mexico City, Guadalajara and Monterrey)

With expanded venues, more matches, and diverse playing conditions, the 2026 edition promises to be the most ambitious and globally watched FIFA World Cup ever.

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Israel

  • KAN 11
  • Sports 5
  • FIFA+ for highlights and official coverage

❓ 2026 FIFA World Cup in Israel – FAQs

Why are most World Cup matches late at night in Israel?
Because the tournament is hosted in North America, matches are played several hours behind Israel, resulting in late-night or early-morning kick-offs.

Are the match times shown in IST or IDT?
All match times are shown in Israel Daylight Time (UTC +3), which is observed in Israel during the tournament period.

Do I need to convert times manually?
No. All kick-off times on this page are already converted to Israel local time for your convenience.

Late nights, dramatic knockouts, and early-morning finals β€” the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a true test of dedication for fans in Israel. Keep this IST schedule bookmarked, plan your viewing wisely, and experience every moment of football’s biggest tournament.

2026 FIFA World Cup Schedule in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will signify a major achievement in the tournament’s long and illustrious history. It will be the first time that the World Cup is co-hosted by three countries, the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a whole continent, thus unveiling an extraordinary geographical scale. Besides the historic aspect of the event, the 2026 edition will also be the first one to have an extended 48-team format, thus leading to the record-breaking total of 104 matches.

Since matches are to be played across multiple North American time zones, fans worldwide will need to be aware of local kick-off times. For those who watch in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), match times will be from late evenings to overnight hours during the group stage, thus becoming more suitable viewing times as the tournament goes on. On this page, you will find the full 2026 FIFA World Cup schedule converted into GMT, thus making every match clear, correct, and straightforward to follow.

🌍 A Brief History of the FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup featured 13 teams in 1930, when it was first held in Uruguay. Through the passage of time, it has developed into the most-watched single sporting event in the world, attracting billions of viewers every four years and creating moments that have become part of football legend.

While South America initially dominated, Europe’s tactical development and Africa’s increased presence, the World Cup has always mirrored the worldwide progress of football. Recent competitions have given rise to highly memorable stories, and among them, the Qatar 2022 final is the most dramatic by far, being recognized as the greatest match ever played.

Below is a look at the most recent FIFA World Cup winners:

Year Host Nation Winner
2022 Qatar Argentina
2018 Russia France
2014 Brazil Germany
2010 South Africa Spain
2006 Germany Italy
2002 Japan & South Korea Brazil
1998 France France

While Brazil remain the most successful nation with five titles, the expanded format in 2026 opens the door for more nations to challenge traditional powers and create new World Cup legacies.

⚽ Quick Facts – 2026 FIFA World Cup

Category Details
Host Nations USA, Canada, Mexico
Tournament Dates 11 June – 19 July 2026
Total Teams 48
Total Matches 104
Time Zone Used on This Page Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC +0)
Final Venue MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA

⏰ Greenwich Mean Time (GMT): What It Is and Where It’s Used

Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) is the major reference time zone used worldwide and the basis of time reckoning on a global scale. It is located at UTC+0, and, in contrast to most time zones, does not change for daylight saving time (DST). For this reason, the use of GMT as the standard is widespread, and all other time zones are compared to it.

Several parts of the globe use GMT either totally or partly. Europe sees it in countries like the United Kingdom (only in winter), Ireland (winter), and Iceland (continually). African nations in the central belt of the continent utilize it all year long in the majority of the West African countries, including Ghana, Senegal, Mali, Guinea, Sierra Leone, Liberia, The Gambia, and the eastern part of the Ivory Coast.

Besides regular timekeeping, GMT is also crucial in setting the global standard used in aviation, international broadcasting, navigation, and worldwide sporting schedules, including the FIFA World Cup. The local time in cities like Reykjavik, Accra, Dakar, or Freetown corresponds with the kick-off times here, so there is no requirement for conversion.

🏟️ How the 48-Team World Cup Format Works

The 2026 FIFA World Cup introduces a new competition format following the expansion to 48 teams. The revised structure increases inclusivity while maintaining the knockout intensity that defines the tournament.

  • 48 teams divided into 12 groups of four
  • Each team plays three group-stage matches
  • The top two teams from each group qualify automatically
  • The eight best third-placed teams also advance
  • Introduction of a new Round of 32

From the Round of 32 onwards, the tournament follows a single-elimination knockout format. Teams must win five consecutive knockout matches to lift the trophy.

πŸ•“ 2026 FIFA World Cup Match Schedule in Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)

For viewers following Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), most group-stage matches will take place during the late evening and overnight hours, while many knockout-stage fixtures are scheduled at more accessible night-time slots.

The opening match of the tournament will kick off on 11 June 2026 at 7:00 PM (GMT), while the final will be played on 19 July 2026 at 7:00 PM (GMT).

Below is the complete list of all 104 matches, with every kick-off time shown accurately in Greenwich Mean Time:

Date Time Team 1 Score Team 2
(Thursday)
7:00 PM (GMT)
Mexico
vs
South Africa
Mexico City
Match No. 1
Group A
(Friday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
South Korea
vs
Czechia
Guadalajara
Match No. 2
Group A
7:00 PM (GMT)
Canada
vs
Bosnia
Toronto
Match No. 3
Group B
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
USA
vs
Paraguay
Los Angeles
Match No. 4
Group D
7:00 PM (GMT)
Qatar
vs
Switzerland
SF Bay Area
Match No. 8
Group B
10:00 PM (GMT)
Brazil
vs
Morocco
New York
Match No. 7
Group C
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Haiti
vs
Scotland
Boston
Match No. 5
Group C
4:00 AM (GMT)
Australia
vs
Turkey
Vancouver
Match No. 6
Group D
5:00 PM (GMT)
Germany
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Houston
Match No. 10
Group E
8:00 PM (GMT)
Netherlands
vs
Japan
Dallas
Match No. 11
Group F
11:00 PM (GMT)
Ivory Coast
vs
Ecuador
Philadelphia
Match No. 9
Group E
(Monday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
Sweden
vs
Tunisia
Monterrey
Match No. 12
Group F
4:00 PM (GMT)
Spain
vs
Cape Verde
Atlanta
Match No. 14
Group H
7:00 PM (GMT)
Belgium
vs
Egypt
Seattle
Match No. 16
Group G
10:00 PM (GMT)
Saudi Arabia
vs
Uruguay
Miami
Match No. 13
Group H
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Iran
vs
New Zealand
Los Angeles
Match No. 15
Group G
7:00 PM (GMT)
France
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 17
Group I
10:00 PM (GMT)
Iraq
vs
Norway
Boston
Match No. 18
Group I
(Wednesday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Argentina
vs
Algeria
Kansas City
Match No. 19
Group J
4:00 AM (GMT)
Austria
vs
Jordan
SF Bay Area
Match No. 20
Group J
5:00 PM (GMT)
Portugal
vs
DR Congo
Houston
Match No. 23
Group K
8:00 PM (GMT)
England
vs
Croatia
Dallas
Match No. 22
Group L
11:00 PM (GMT)
Ghana
vs
Panama
Toronto
Match No. 21
Group L
(Thursday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
Uzbekistan
vs
Colombia
Mexico City
Match No. 24
Group K
4:00 PM (GMT)
Czechia
vs
South Africa
Atlanta
Match No. 25
Group A
7:00 PM (GMT)
Switzerland
vs
Bosnia
Los Angeles
Match No. 26
Group B
10:00 PM (GMT)
Canada
vs
Qatar
Vancouver
Match No. 27
Group B
(Friday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Mexico
vs
South Korea
Guadalajara
Match No. 28
Group A
7:00 PM (GMT)
USA
vs
Australia
Seattle
Match No. 32
Group D
10:00 PM (GMT)
Scotland
vs
Morocco
Boston
Match No. 30
Group C
(Saturday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Brazil
vs
Haiti
Philadelphia
Match No. 29
Group C
4:00 AM (GMT)
Turkey
vs
Paraguay
SF Bay Area
Match No. 31
Group D
5:00 PM (GMT)
Netherlands
vs
Sweden
Houston
Match No. 35
Group F
8:00 PM (GMT)
Germany
vs
Ivory Coast
Toronto
Match No. 33
Group E
(Sunday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Ecuador
vs
CuraΓ§ao
Kansas City
Match No. 34
Group E
4:00 AM (GMT)
Tunisia
vs
Japan
Monterrey
Match No. 36
Group F
4:00 PM (GMT)
Spain
vs
Saudi Arabia
Atlanta
Match No. 38
Group H
7:00 PM (GMT)
Belgium
vs
Iran
Los Angeles
Match No. 39
Group G
10:00 PM (GMT)
Uruguay
vs
Cape Verde
Miami
Match No. 37
Group H
(Monday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
New Zealand
vs
Egypt
Vancouver
Match No. 40
Group G
5:00 PM (GMT)
Argentina
vs
Austria
Dallas
Match No. 43
Group J
9:00 PM (GMT)
France
vs
Iraq
Philadelphia
Match No. 42
Group I
(Tuesday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Norway
vs
Senegal
New York
Match No. 41
Group I
3:00 AM (GMT)
Jordan
vs
Algeria
SF Bay Area
Match No. 44
Group J
5:00 PM (GMT)
Portugal
vs
Uzbekistan
Houston
Match No. 47
Group K
8:00 PM (GMT)
England
vs
Ghana
Boston
Match No. 45
Group L
11:00 PM (GMT)
Panama
vs
Croatia
Toronto
Match No. 46
Group L
(Wednesday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
Colombia
vs
DR Congo
Guadalajara
Match No. 48
Group K
7:00 PM (GMT)
Switzerland
vs
Canada
Vancouver
Match No. 51
Group B
7:00 PM (GMT)
Bosnia
vs
Qatar
Seattle
Match No. 52
Group B
10:00 PM (GMT)
Scotland
vs
Brazil
Miami
Match No. 49
Group C
10:00 PM (GMT)
Morocco
vs
Haiti
Atlanta
Match No. 50
Group C
(Thursday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Czechia
vs
Mexico
Mexico City
Match No. 53
Group A
1:00 AM (GMT)
South Africa
vs
South Korea
Monterrey
Match No. 54
Group A
8:00 PM (GMT)
CuraΓ§ao
vs
Ivory Coast
Philadelphia
Match No. 55
Group E
8:00 PM (GMT)
Ecuador
vs
Germany
New York
Match No. 56
Group E
11:00 PM (GMT)
Japan
vs
Sweden
Dallas
Match No. 57
Group F
11:00 PM (GMT)
Tunisia
vs
Netherlands
Kansas City
Match No. 58
Group F
(Friday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
Turkey
vs
USA
Los Angeles
Match No. 59
Group D
2:00 AM (GMT)
Paraguay
vs
Australia
SF Bay Area
Match No. 60
Group D
7:00 PM (GMT)
Norway
vs
France
Boston
Match No. 61
Group I
7:00 PM (GMT)
Senegal
vs
Iraq
Toronto
Match No. 62
Group I
(Saturday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Cape Verde
vs
Saudi Arabia
Houston
Match No. 65
Group H
12:00 AM (GMT)
Uruguay
vs
Spain
Guadalajara
Match No. 66
Group H
3:00 AM (GMT)
Egypt
vs
Iran
Seattle
Match No. 63
Group G
3:00 AM (GMT)
New Zealand
vs
Belgium
Vancouver
Match No. 64
Group G
9:00 PM (GMT)
Panama
vs
England
New York
Match No. 67
Group L
9:00 PM (GMT)
Croatia
vs
Ghana
Philadelphia
Match No. 68
Group L
11:30 PM (GMT)
Colombia
vs
Portugal
Miami
Match No. 71
Group K
11:30 PM (GMT)
DR Congo
vs
Uzbekistan
Atlanta
Match No. 72
Group K
(Sunday)
2:00 AM (GMT)
Algeria
vs
Austria
Kansas City
Match No. 69
Group J
2:00 AM (GMT)
Jordan
vs
Argentina
Dallas
Match No. 70
Group J
7:00 PM (GMT)
Runner-up Group A
vs
Runner-up Group B
Los Angeles
Match No. 73
Round of 32
(Monday)
5:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group C
vs
Runner-up Group F
Houston
Match No. 76
Round of 32
8:30 PM (GMT)
Winner Group E
vs
3rd Group A/B/C/D/F
Boston
Match No. 74
Round of 32
(Tuesday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Group F
vs
Runner-up Group C
Monterrey
Match No. 75
Round of 32
5:00 PM (GMT)
Runner-up Group E
vs
Runner-up Group I
Dallas
Match No. 78
Round of 32
9:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group I
vs
3rd Group C/D/F/G/H
New York
Match No. 77
Round of 32
(Wednesday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Group A
vs
3rd Group C/E/F/H/I
Mexico City
Match No. 79
Round of 32
4:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group L
vs
3rd Group E/H/I/J/K
Atlanta
Match No. 80
Round of 32
8:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group G
vs
3rd Group A/E/H/I/J
Seattle
Match No. 82
Round of 32
(Thursday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Group D
vs
3rd Group B/E/F/I/J
SF Bay Area
Match No. 81
Round of 32
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group H
vs
Runner-up Group J
Los Angeles
Match No. 84
Round of 32
11:00 PM (GMT)
Runner-up Group K
vs
Runner-up Group L
Toronto
Match No. 83
Round of 32
(Friday)
3:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Group B
vs
3rd Group E/F/G/I/J
Vancouver
Match No. 85
Round of 32
6:00 PM (GMT)
Runner-up Group D
vs
Runner-up Group G
Dallas
Match No. 88
Round of 32
10:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Group J
vs
Runner-up Group H
Miami
Match No. 86
Round of 32
(Saturday)
1:30 AM (GMT)
Winner Group K
vs
3rd Group D/E/I/J/L
Kansas City
Match No. 87
Round of 32
5:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 73
vs
Winner Match 75
Houston
Match No. 90
Round of 16
9:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 74
vs
Winner Match 77
Philadelphia
Match No. 89
Round of 16
(Sunday)
8:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 76
vs
Winner Match 78
New York
Match No. 91
Round of 16
(Monday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Match 79
vs
Winner Match 80
Mexico City
Match No. 92
Round of 16
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 83
vs
Winner Match 84
Dallas
Match No. 93
Round of 16
(Tuesday)
12:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Match 81
vs
Winner Match 82
Seattle
Match No. 94
Round of 16
4:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 86
vs
Winner Match 88
Atlanta
Match No. 95
Round of 16
8:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 85
vs
Winner Match 87
Vancouver
Match No. 96
Round of 16
(Thursday)
8:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 89
vs
Winner Match 90
Boston
Match No. 97
Quarterfinals
(Friday)
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 93
vs
Winner Match 94
Los Angeles
Match No. 98
Quarterfinals
(Saturday)
9:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 91
vs
Winner Match 92
Miami
Match No. 99
Quarterfinals
(Sunday)
1:00 AM (GMT)
Winner Match 95
vs
Winner Match 96
Kansas City
Match No. 100
Quarterfinals
(Tuesday)
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 97
vs
Winner Match 98
Dallas
Match No. 101
Semifinals
(Wednesday)
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 99
vs
Winner Match 100
Atlanta
Match No. 102
Semifinals
(Saturday)
9:00 PM (GMT)
Loser Match 101
vs
Loser Match 102
Miami
Match No. 103
Third place
(Sunday)
7:00 PM (GMT)
Winner Match 101
vs
Winner Match 102
New York
Match No. 104
Final

🌍 Host Nations & Match Venues

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will unfold across 16 host cities in three North American countries, making it the most geographically spread, out World Cup in history.

The U. S. will stage most of the games, including the final, whereas Canada and Mexico will provide some of the most recognizable venues and passionate fans.

πŸ“Ί How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup in GMT Regions

Broadcast coverage in GMT-aligned regions varies by country but typically includes national broadcasters, regional sports networks, and official digital platforms.

  • United Kingdom & Ireland: BBC, ITV, RTΓ‰
  • West Africa:Β  New World TV, SuperSport (DStv/GOtv) and Free-to-Air
  • International: FIFA+

❓ Greenwich Mean Time & 2026 World Cup – FAQs

What time will most matches kick off in GMT?
Most group-stage matches will start between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM GMT, while knockout-stage games are more commonly scheduled in the evening.

Does GMT observe daylight saving time?
No. GMT remains constant year-round at UTC +0.

When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in GMT?
The final will be played on 19 July 2026 at 7:00 PM (GMT).

For fans across regions aligned with Greenwich Mean Time, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises weeks of late nights, dramatic matches, and unforgettable football moments. Bookmark this page, keep the GMT schedule handy, and follow every kick of the biggest World Cup ever.